Ayurvedic Treatment for Sinusitis

Jan 28, 2025|Dr Ravin Chandak|M.D., PhD.(Scho)

Introduction

Sinusitis is a condition in which the lining of sinuses becomes inflamed. According to ayurveda, sinusitis can be correlated to Dushta Pratishyaya, where the main dosha affected is kapha. It gets aggravated and vitiates the prana vata (a subtype of Vata), which is mainly present in  respiratory tract.

Types of sinusitis

Acute sinusitis: A sudden onset of cold-like symptoms such as runny, stuffy nose and facial pain that last for 10 to 14 days. Acute sinusitis typically lasts 4 weeks or less.

Chronic sinusitis: A condition characterized by sinus inflammation symptoms lasting 8 weeks or longer.

Recurrent sinusitis: Several attacks within a year.

Symptoms and signs

·        Headache due to partially or completely blocked sinuses.

·        Facial tenderness and/or swelling

·        Fever

·        A cloudy, discoloured nasal drainage

·        Postnasal drip is mucus overproduction from sinusitis that flows to the throat and irritates throat tissue.

·        Sore throat

·        Cough is a response to post nasal drip and the body’s attempt to clear out throat tissue irritants.

·        Ear pain

·        Sneezing

Ayurveda Treatment

1)Pachakarma 

Process comprises five steps for the detoxification and rejuvenation of mind and body. This treatment contains herbal massages and cleansing enemas.

2) Nasya

It is one of the five detoxification procedures in Ayurveda. In Nasya, the medicated oil or powder or fresh juice of herbs are administered through the nostrils to clear the Kapha lodged in sinuses. The oil travels through the nasal passage, penetrates the nasal mucosal lining and scrapes out the accumulated Kapha in the sinuses. Some of the best ayurvedic nasal drops are Anu taila, Shat Bindu taila, Ksheerabala Tila taila, Coconut oil etc.   

3)Shirodhara

Shirodhara is a procedure of slowly and steadily dripping medicated oil or other liquids on the forehead. This procedure induces a relaxed state of awareness that results in a dynamic psycho-somatic balance.

4) Dhoomapana

Post Nasya treatment, a procedure called dhoomapana is prescribed. The patient is asked to inhale the fumes of a medicated Varti (prepared from medicated powders) and exhale it through the mouth. Any left out doshas or Kapha will be easily pushed out after Dhoomapana.   

5) Gandusha

Oil pulling in Ayurveda is referred to as Gandusha. Oil pulling also helps to dislodge the excess mucous and clears the pathway to the nose and throat. 

6) Lepam

Medicated pastes are recommended for headaches which are made from medicated powders or fresh herbs and  applied over the forehead. This calms and provides quick relief.  

7) Steam Inhalation 

Steam inhalation is another best way of sinusitis treatment in Ayurveda. The boiling water helps pull excess mucous from the sinuses. In acute conditions, steam inhalation is done 2-3 times a day.   

8) DIET

Avoid consumption of food that increases Kapha. Excess sugar, cheese, creams, milk, banana, oily, fried and junk food. Avoid taking fruits in the night if you suffer from Sinusitis. Drink warm water and avoid consumption of cold liquids.

Foods reducing inflammation are

·        Fish: Wild salmon, cod, and sardines rich in omega 3 fatty acids

·        Turmeric spice: Often used in Thai and Indian food, contains curcumin which reduces inflammation

·        Beans: Mung beans, and kidney beans are also high in omega 3 fatty acids

·        Vegetables such as broccoli, leafy greens, and bean sprouts contain high vitamin C

·        Citrus fruits  oranges, grapefruit, and berries

·        Drinking green tea and fluids help to alleviate any headaches that can result from dehydration

·        Spices such as ginger, basil, and cayenne pepper

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